FL: HART Expands Wi-Fi Connections
Hillsborough Area Regional Transit Authority has announced it is expanding the availability of free wireless Internet service to include the TECO Line Streetcar System and the agency's top transit and transfer centers.
Until recently, complimentary Wi-Fi was only available on all fixed-route buses. Now, TECO Line Streetcar passengers and HART riders can check emails, stream music or watch movies on their commute thanks to free Wi-Fi at the following.
HART transit and transfer locations:
- Marion Transit Center (MTC) - 1211 N. Marion St
- University Area Transit Center (UATC) - 13110 N. 27th St
- Netp@rk Transfer Center - 5003 N. 56th St.
- Northwest Transfer Center 9325 W. Waters Ave
"This is another significant step toward expanding technology that not only allows HART to provide more services to its customers, but expands the HART commitment to innovative technology and solutions throughout our system." said HART CFO Jeff Seward. "We are pleased to offer this enhanced amenity to our TECO Line Streetcar System riders and our customers at MTC, UATC, Netp@ark and Northwest transfer centers."
The process is the same as on a HART bus. To connect to HART Wi-Fi, go to Settings > Wi-Fi. Then, turn on Wi-Fi, if it isn't already turned on. Your device will automatically search for available Wi-Fi networks. Next, tap the name, HART-Patrons-OTC Wi-Fi Network to access the free service. Please be courteous to your neighbors, and wear earbuds when watching videos or listening to music.
Wi-Fi is actually a piece of a bigger puzzle at HART. Ultimately, this roll-out of Wi-Fi technology will be the foundation of the upcoming smart card program, where passengers will be able to use their smart phones and dedicated account-based cards to travel not only the HART system, but throughout the Tampa Bay area region.
In addition to the Streetcar, HART buses and transit & transfer centers, free Wi-Fi will be installed on HARTFlex and HARTPlus vehicles in the near future.
It's another way that HART keeps pace with your busy life. You can be productive and keep in touch yet arrive at your destination safely. The expansion of Wi-Fi to the TECO Line Streetcar System and our busiest transit and transfer centers is yet another reason for choosing to ride HART whether someone is going to work, to school or to the store.
